Nostalgia

As a child growing up in southern New England, late September marked the beginning of autumn, which meant a trip to the local apple orchard and pumpkin patch. My family and I would often spend Saturday afternoon in the crisp fall air in search of the perfect apples and pumpkins to make pies and other delicious treats to snack on through the remainder of the year.

For families around the world, the changing of the seasons ushers in a variety of traditions. Some folks take trips to lakes and beaches in the summer, go on adventures in the big city, or relax in the countryside. Others may not go anywhere in particular. They may make special meals during the holidays with friends or play board games together.

For me, this time of year makes me think about these orchard trips with my family. Looking at this photo of apples, from the Flying Cloud Apple Orchard in Acushnet, Massachusetts, I can almost taste the cider that was such a treat to drink when I was a child.

Of course, nostalgia is something that affects everyone differently. We’d love to know what kinds of experiences you’ve had that stir these emotions for the past in you.

For this challenge, show us what nostalgia means to you — perhaps a moment or scene that makes you feel wistful, happy, sad, or somehow longing for the past. It might be with friends, family, or by yourself — anywhere, anytime of year. We can’t wait to see your interpretations of this theme!

Thanks Jeff… just wish I’d gotten through those “first 10,000 photographs are your worst” a bit earlier in my life. Back in the days of film it was much more expensive to shoot. Have finally made up for it! 🙂

Nostalgia to me is reading articles in which the author remembers his childhood places and the flora and fauna! And captures these in a pome’ or pun, a photograph or an oil painting done outdoors. I have my favorite Spot or two, too. I LOVE THE SAYING, “One is known by the company one keeps. I know my company is the stuff that bodies like WWF ,Green Corps and hundreds others are made of. All wanting to make their childhood dream come tru!

Absolutely! I see on your blog you mention Thomas Marent. He’s one of my all time favorite photographers! His Rainforest and Frog books are two of my favorite of all time! Some of the most incredible macro shots I’ve ever seen!

Thanks for sharing Yann! I particularly enjoy the shot of the old greenhouse that’s now an art gallery. To touch a bit on your post, It’s interesting to see that in more historical places there’s definitely nostalgia around every corner. But for who? Are folks still around to appreciate the history?

This is amazing. I also have a small number of items and toys I’ve kept with me along the way. Emotions and memories always have a way of pouring through whenever I spend a minute admiring the trinkets. Thank you so much for sharing. It’s amazing you’ve had her for over 50 years!

Those apples look delicious (no pun intended but I’m chuckling to myself). I can’t wait to start making applesauce and maybe a pie or two as well as other apple delights. Tasty entry for your own theme.